For Educators

Teachers, coaches, school-based staff and volunteers play a special role in helping to prevent and respond to child abuse and neglect. By establishing strong relationships with children and teens, they become the trusted adults to whom students can turn in difficult times. Educators and schools are among the most common sources to receive disclosures from children and adolescents, opening an important door for students to get the help they need.

Our medical, mental health and prevention specialists support schools by providing presentations and trainings on the impact of trauma on children and adults, the signs and symptoms of abuse, services and programs of Children’s Center, and how we can work together to keep children safe. Sessions are typically 30-90 minutes.

The Stewards of Children® training is a valuable resource for schools seeking to meet the adult requirements of Senate Bill 856, Erin’s Law. Darkness to Light’s video-based curriculum defines child sexual abuse, helps participants recognize some of the signs to watch for in children, and provides examples of how to respond in a trauma-informed and non-shaming manner. It outlines practical steps for bystanders and gives school-based staff, parents and community a tool kit to work together on this sensitive but important issue.